Virginia lawmakers have formally rejected Governor Spanberger’s proposed rewrite of legislation to legalize recreational marijuana sales, sending the measure back to her desk and giving her 30 days to veto it or allow it to become law.
The move comes after Spanberger submitted a full substitute for House Bill 642 and Senate Bill 542, rather than offering targeted amendments. Her version would have delayed the launch of retail sales from January 1, 2027, to July 1, 2027, reduced purchase limits from 2.5 ounces to 2 ounces, and increased the state excise tax from 6% to 8%. Lawmakers were required to either accept or reject the proposal in its entirety.
By rejecting the substitute, the General Assembly has effectively preserved the original version of the legislation, which establishes a framework for licensed marijuana sales without the governor’s proposed changes. The bill now returns to Spanberger, who must decide whether to veto it or allow it to become law without her signature.
The situation places the governor in a politically notable position. During her campaign, Spanberger expressed support for creating a regulated marijuana market in Virginia. However, her proposed revisions signaled a more cautious approach, including a slower rollout, stricter limits, and higher long-term taxes.
If she chooses to veto the bill, lawmakers would need to reconvene and attempt an override, a process that is far from guaranteed. If she takes no action within the 30-day window, the measure would automatically become law in its current form, despite her previously stated preference for changes.
With adult-use marijuana already legal for possession in Virginia but no system in place for retail sales, the decision will determine whether the state finally moves forward with a regulated marketplace—or faces continued delays as lawmakers revisit the issue.
